MLB Free Agents 2012: Jose Reyes Talks Show Marlins Are Serious About Contending

Big changes are underway in South Florida, where the Florida Marlins have become the Miami Marlins to coincide with their new stadium and logo. But there appear to be even bigger changes on the horizon.

After finishing 30 games behind the Philadelphia Phillies in 2011, the Marlins have promised big changes to generate interest in the team. With rumors that they are close to a deal with shortstop Jose Reyes, it seems Miami is ready to back up the talk.

Reyes would immediately make the left side of Miami's infield the most dynamic in baseball. Hanley Ramirez would likely shift to third base to accommodate Reyes, and with them occupying two high spots it the order, opposing pitchers would have nightmares.

Both players have struggled with injuries in recent seasons, though, so that will continue to be a hurdle to overcome.

The Marlins finished in the middle of the pack in both hitting and pitching based on WAR, so a couple of additions could instantly make them a playoff contender. Although the Phillies will be tough to hang with, a wild card spot isn't out of the question if more improvements are made.

One upgrade will come from within in the form of Josh Johnson, who is expected to be ready for spring training despite shoulder issues. He's one of the league's elite pitchers when healthy, and could make Florida's rotation deep enough to remain competitive.

Miami has also been linked to several other high-profile free agents such as Albert Pujols, Carlos Beltran and Mark Buehrle. While they won't be able to afford all of these players, they are hoping to land at least one or two by blanking the market.

It's no secret that the Marlins' attendance has struggled mightily, and the franchise is hoping to change that with a myriad of changes during the winter.

Following a major boost to the Miami Heat, thanks to a superstar invasion, the Marlins appear to be attempting the same strategy. Hanley Ramirez doesn't have the same pull as Dwayne Wade, however.

Regardless, die-hard Marlin fans will be pleased to see the team's aggressive approach, even though it took much longer than it should have to happen.

Locking up Reyes would be a terrific first step, and should allow more pieces to fall into place, making Miami a solid sleeper candidate next season.